Falcons fall twice on Group Stage Day 1 of Riyadh Masters 2024

The Riyadh Masters 2024 kicked off its group stage with a bang on Day 1, delivering a series of unexpected results and showcasing the talent of both established powerhouses and rising stars. Here's a recap of the day's biggest storylines:

Falcons Fumble: Tournament favourites struggle

The biggest surprise came from Team Falcons, the tournament favourites and currently the best Dota 2 team in the world. Despite fervent home crowd support, Falcons stumbled twice, losing 0-2 to both Gaimin Gladiators and Team Spirit.

Can they recover from the stumble or will they continue to fumble in one of the biggest esports Dota 2 tournaments with $5,000,000 on the line?

Europe from the front at Riyadh Masters 2024 Group Stage

Riyadh Masters 2024 Group Stage Day 1 is off to a great start, especially for the European Dota 2 teams, as the majority are in the top half of the table. Team Spirit, BetBoom, Entity and Tundra Esports are tied for the first place.

Team Liquid and Gaimin Gladiators had moderate outcomes whereas OG and Mouz are struggling in the bottom half of the table. It will be interesting to see how the event unfolds for the European teams on Day 2.

Blacklist International and Aurora hold the fort for SEA

Blacklist International and Aurora are holding the fort for Southeast Asia (SEA) Dota as both teams are placed in the top half of the table. Each of their series resulted in a draw that placed them on the safer side as compared to the lower-rung teams.

Day 2 is going to be pretty relaxed for both teams as they play only one series each against teams on the lower end of the spectrum.

China continues to struggle

Chinese Dota 2 teams are having a tougher time than expected with both teams, Xtreme Gaming and LGD Gaming, with both teams securing a draw on Day 1 of the Riyadh Masters 2024 group stage.

However, LGD has two series in its bag while XG has played only one series so far. They still have a long way to go. But the burning question remains: Will China make strides in the tournament?

South America on the rise

South American Dota 2 team, Heroic, impressed on day 1 with their coordinated plays and strategic depth. They won against Gaimin Gladiators and drew a series against LGD Gaming, and are continuing to carry on the momentum and challenge the dominance of the favourites.

Day 2 promises to be even more exciting as the remaining teams take centre stage. Who will rise to the occasion, and who will falter under pressure? Keep your eyes peeled for the next round of Dota 2 action at the Riyadh Masters 2024!